My earliest memory of books is sitting on my
mother’s lap as she read to me when I was a very young child. The book I remember most was about a puppy
that got lost. Every time my mother got
to the part where the puppy became lost, I would cry. I felt so bad for it. What
would the puppy do? What would happen to
it? Would someone find it? I had
heard the story many times. I knew it
would have a happy ending. I still
cried. My mother would comfort me, but I
always felt the puppy’s loneliness and fear.
I was overjoyed when it was found.
Literature can have a powerful impact on children and their lives.
When teaching reading, I would often have my
students write their personal responses to the piece of literature we had just
read. I marveled at the uniqueness of
their responses. Students made
connections to their own lives, to other stories, or to the world at
large. Their responses led to wonderful,
thought-provoking conversations and questions.
Our discussions were thorough.
They delved into aspects of the story not covered in the Teacher’s
Guide. They elevated thinking to higher
levels. The impact of the stories became
evident.
Literature can help children understand the world
around them. It can educate, inspire,
and comfort. It can broaden perspectives and bring humor
and joy. It can help students believe in
themselves and understand their feelings.
The list could go on and on.
What are some of the books you read as a child that
had an impact on your life? What was the
impact? I’d love to hear how a story or
poem or informational text made a difference in your life.
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